West Virginia Hunter Safety Course

6 Easy Steps to Cleaning a Firearm

Step 1.

Attach a cleaning brush that is the same size as the caliber or gauge of your firearm onto a cleaning rod. Pour a small amount of cleaning solution into an open container, such as a film canister, and dip the brush into the cleaning solution. Dipping the brush directly into the bottle of cleaning solution will contaminate the entire supply.

Step 2.

Place the cleaning rod with a brush attached into the bore and work the brush down the entire length of the barrel.

Step 3.

Remove the cleaning brush from the cleaning rod and attach the slotted patch holder onto the cleaning rod. Attach a clean patch onto the slotted patch holder and run the patch down the entire length of the barrel. Next, use the bore light to inspect the action and bore. If you spot any more residue, use another patch until it's completely clean.

Step 4.

Attach a clean, well-oiled patch onto the slotted patch holder and run it down the entire length of the barrel. The oil will prevent rust in the barrel. Your barrel is now clean!

Step 5.

Use a copper cleaning brush and work it around the bolt, bolt face and action to remove any powder residue. Wipe the bolt and action clean and apply a thin coat of oil.

Step 6.

Wipe down the entire firearm with a lightly oiled rag to clean and protect the outside surface.